Plain Language: Improving Communications from the Federal Government to the Public


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Tips & Tools> Guidance> Guidelines Table of Contents> Consider using illustrations

Consider using illustrations


While government pamphlets and similar items intended for the public usually include many illustrations, illustrations rarely appear in letters or regulations. However, even in these documents, you can use illustrations to good effect. Consider these examples from regulations.

Federal Aviation Regulations in 14 CFR part 95 contain illustrations of mountainous areas which are subject to special flight restrictions, such as this illustration of mountainous areas of Alaska:

illustration of mountainous areas of Alaska

National Park Service regulations at 36 CFR part 7.96 includes pictures of areas in Washington, DC, where activities are controlled, such as these drawings of the White House and Lincoln Memorial:

drawings of the White House and Lincoln Memorial

14 CFR 1221.102 establishes the NASA Seal.

NASA Seal

Appendix C to 40 CFR Part 50 illustrates the measurement principle and calibration procedure for measuring carbon monoxide in the atmosphere.

diagram illustrating the measurement principle and calibration procedure for measuring carbon monoxide in the atmosphere

50 CFR section 216.95 illustrates the official mark for “Dolphin-safe” tuna products.

department of commerce dolphin-safe label
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